And just like that, it's almost time to put away the flip flops and bring out the sweaters...if you're in the northern hemisphere, anyway. It's been a long, dry, and extremely hot summer here in So. Cal, so even this bonafide summer girl is kind of ready to light some candles and get cozy on the couch. But since it'll still be warm for awhile, I'm going to ease into fall and enjoy this transitional time of warm days sandwiched between cool nights and even cooler mornings. I know you're probably ready for the change too, but let's just take this time to appreciate what is now while we look forward to a new season.
bring on the cozy
There’s a reason why so many people are obsessed with the fall season (and no, it’s not the PSL). It’s the cozy factor.
Fall is one of the coziest times of the year and we as humans love to be cozy and comfortable. In fall, the days are getting shorter and we are enveloped by more darkness, which signals our bodies to slow down. Also, by the time fall approaches we are ready to start the transition into the holiday season (which for some), is the happiest time of the year. We’re with family and friends, we’re taking time off, we’re letting ourselves eat that cookie that maybe we skipped over during the summer, and most of all, we’re just taking time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the creature comforts of life.
So how do you get your space ready for fall?
You don’t have to break out the pumpkins and cinnamon bundles (unless that’s your thing) to get that fall feeling… in fact, I discourage overly gimmicky, hit-you-over-the-head fall decor. Again, (unless it’s your thing), there are other ways to ring in the new season…
Warm, Rich Colors- Spicy terracottas, golden saffrons, chocolate browns, along with mocha, plum, eggplant, burgundy, emerald and forest greens are the true standouts of the fall season. Bring in these deeper colors with paint, pillows, throws, books, and furniture. * Trend Alert * look for the return of dark woods like walnut, cherry, teak, and ebonized wood.
Texture- A big part of the cozy factor is touch, so it makes sense that texture plays a big part in an autumnal space. But we not only experience texture through touch, we experience it with our eyes as well. Rich fabrics like velvet, boucle, teddy bear, faux fur, and knits are soft and add a bit of luxury to your space. While smooth plaster, knotty wood branches, warm travertine stone, and rustic materials like clay pots and woven baskets bring in a warm lived in feeling. And don’t forget a comfy rug for some tactile pleasure for your feet.
Scent- I know what you’re thinking! Pumpkin spice and cinnamon, right? Well those are perfectly fine and acceptable, but I personally prefer to go in a more woody and warm direction (and let the fresh baked cinnamon rolls baking in the oven bring in the yummy scents). But hey, that’s me. Scents are very personal and for good reason- they can evoke a lot of emotion and recall in us. So pick whatever makes you happy. Candles, diffusers, and room sprays will all help to up your olfactory game. * Helpful note * it can be tricky to make sure your candle is vegan-friendly so look for coconut, vegetable, and soy wax options with cotton wicks, but be aware that sometimes other animal derived ingredients maybe hiding in the mix… if not clearly marked vegan, best to reach out to the company for clarification- most are quite responsive.
Lighting- Lighting is a huge part of design anytime of the year, but especially during the cozy season. Having different sources of lighting is key. Table and floor lamps really help to up the cozy factor as often times, overhead lighting can be a bit harsh. Stick to a warmer color temperature light source (2700-3000K max) for a cozy feel and add dimmers if you can for some mood lighting. Smart bulbs are a great option to help switch up your lighting if it’s not in the budget for any major changes.
Fire Elements- The fireplace rules during fall and winter…there’s just something about that flickering light that reaches that deep primal side of us humans… But not to worry if you don’t have one- adding candles to your space can give you that same cozy feeling. If you’re worried about, well, fire, there are battery operated flickering options available out there instead.
Abundance- Dare I say more is more? Look, I’m not saying you have to go full on maximalist, but there is a case for having a little more decor around during the fall and winter seasons, because let’s face it, sparse is not super cozy. You don’t have to go overboard though- try adding a few extra throws, pillows, books, vases and vessels to make your space feel cozy and lived in.
What did I miss? What elements do you like to break out when the season changes?